Historical Events tagged with "investments"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Economics & Industry

Oil Discovery Transforms Saudi Arabia's Economy

March 3rd, 1938 87 years ago

In 1938, the first significant oil reserves were discovered in Saudi Arabia near the town of Dhahran. Geologists from the California Arabian Standard Oil Company (CASOC) were conducting exploratory drilling and struck oil at the Dammam No. 7 well. This discovery marked the beginning of Saudi Arabia's transformation into a major player in the global oil market. The find led to increased foreign investment and set in motion a series of developments that would make the nation one of the world's leading oil producers.

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Economics & Industry

GM Acquires Interest in Oakland Motor Car Company

January 20th, 1909 116 years ago

General Motors invested in the Oakland Motor Car Company to expand its influence in the automotive market. This acquisition marked the beginning of what would later evolve into GM's enduring Pontiac division. The partnership aimed to create a stronger competitive presence amidst the rapidly growing auto industry of the early 20th century.

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Economics & Industry

Jay Cooke & Company Bankruptcy Sparks Panic

September 18th, 1873 151 years ago

The bankruptcy of Jay Cooke & Company, a prominent banking institution in the United States, triggered a financial crisis known as the Panic of 1873. The firm, heavily invested in railroad bonds, was unable to sustain its operations following a series of failed investments and declining profits. This event caused widespread fear among investors and depositors, leading to a run on banks and the failure of numerous financial institutions across the country. The consequences of this collapse reverberated throughout the U.S. economy, exacerbating an already fragile economic landscape.

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